Coordinator to the Prime Minister for Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, has emphasized the critical connection between gender equality and environmental sustainability, asserting that empowering women is essential for a sustainable future.
According to a PID statement today, Romina highlighted the significant role women play in driving environmental change, underscoring their importance in achieving green solutions and fostering a more sustainable world. She stated that as the world observes International Women’s Day, it is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and determination of women globally. She stressed that women are central to shaping societies and economies, especially in addressing climate change.
“I am proud to reflect on the vital contributions women make in the fight against climate change, both in Pakistan and across the globe,” remarked Romina Alam. This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” urges swift progress toward gender equality, focusing on strategies that enhance women’s access to education, employment, and leadership roles.
She explained that climate change disproportionately affects women, particularly in vulnerable communities. From extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves to challenges related to food security and access to clean water, women are often on the frontlines of climate change’s devastating impacts. However, they are also leading efforts to find solutions, advocate for policy changes, and transform their communities into more resilient and sustainable environments.
“I take pride in being part of a government that recognizes the role of women in climate action and is committed to empowering them to drive change. Women’s leadership in climate resilience and sustainable development is crucial to achieving our climate goals,” she added.
Romina highlighted that in Pakistan, women are actively involved in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. They manage community resources, advocate for gender-sensitive policies, and develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges. She pointed out that rural women are at the forefront of water conservation initiatives, promoting efficient water management practices, and creating alternative, sustainable livelihoods.
“In extreme weather conditions, women play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of their families, particularly children and the elderly,” she noted. She stressed the importance of amplifying women’s voices in climate discussions, ensuring that their perspectives are integrated into all stages of climate policy, from planning to implementation.
The Government of Pakistan, she said, is committed to incorporating gender-responsive approaches into its climate strategies. This includes prioritizing women’s participation in climate governance and expanding access to climate finance for women-led initiatives. Programs like the Women’s Empowerment in Climate Change Adaptation Program are equipping women with the skills and resources needed to lead climate action within their communities.
She added that the Ministry of Climate Change is actively collaborating with international organizations and local partners to ensure women remain at the forefront of climate resilience and sustainability efforts. Recognizing the global contributions of women in climate action, she acknowledged the leadership of Indigenous women in forest conservation and young female activists advocating for climate justice.
Romina emphasized that gender equality is essential to achieving climate justice and called for the elimination of barriers that prevent women’s full participation in climate action. She stressed the need to address challenges such as access to education, healthcare, and economic resources, while also ensuring women’s safety from violence and discrimination.
On International Women’s Day, she urged a renewed commitment to gender equality in climate action, emphasizing that women should be given the tools and support needed to lead sustainable change. “The future of our planet depends on the leadership, innovation, and determination of women. Together, we can build a world where women are not just survivors of climate change but leaders of the climate movement,” she concluded.
Romina expressed deep admiration for the women of Pakistan and the world, acknowledging their commitment to climate action. She stated that empowering women in the Global South-through education, access to resources, and leadership roles-can significantly enhance both mitigation and adaptation efforts, fostering stronger, more resilient communities.